Encompassing portions of five blocks from the original townsite, the district showcases the early transformation of Mesa from a rural community to suburban estates. Unlike the formal replatting of entire blocks into residential subdivisions, the original "City of Zion" garden blocks were divided into individual lots through gradual lot splits. This process allowed for a more organic, incremental development of the area.
A defining feature of the district is its wide public rights-of-way, which were improved and narrowed through the introduction of tree-lined, grassy medians. These landscaped medians are significant character-defining elements that contribute to the district's unique charm.
The oldest home in the district, the Hakes/Isley/McDavid House, dates from around 1884-1890, and subsequent homes were added over time, resulting in a rich mix of architectural styles and construction dates. This slow, informal development process gives the West Second Street Historic District its eclectic and diverse architectural character.